Jammu, February 16:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a pre-budget consultation meeting with public representatives from Jammu district at the Civil Secretariat.
In his address, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stressed the importance of involving elected representatives in the budget-making process to ensure that the needs and aspirations of the people are effectively addressed. “We could have prepared the budget in our offices, but we are consulting elected representatives to ensure that the people’s needs and aspirations are reflected,” he said. He acknowledged that public representatives are deeply familiar with ground realities, having interacted closely with their constituents during election campaigns. “You understand the issues and demands of the people because you are directly connected to them,” he added, emphasising the importance of these consultations.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the discussions would significantly influence the budget’s direction and help address key concerns of the public. During the session, the Chairman of DDC Jammu and various MLAs raised a range of issues impacting their constituencies. These included the need for improvements in irrigation systems, better access to clean drinking water, and addressing the poor condition of roads.
MLAs highlighted the need for bridges and infrastructure upgrades to improve connectivity. Concerns regarding healthcare improvements, the construction of new educational institutions, and modernising drainage and sewerage systems, especially in urban and semi-urban areas, were also discussed. The representatives called for a modern drainage network to mitigate waterlogging and sanitation issues.
Another pressing issue raised was the alarming rise in drug abuse, with calls for establishing de-addiction centres, awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement measures. Several members also advocated for the development of sports infrastructure, including stadiums, playgrounds, and training centres, to encourage youth participation in sports.
Tourism development was another focal point, with suggestions to enhance local attractions, improve tourist amenities, and create new tourism circuits to boost the local economy.
Public representatives expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for initiating these pre-budget consultations, noting that it was the first time they had been actively involved in the budget formulation process. They appreciated the government’s inclusive approach, which allowed them to directly voice the needs of their constituencies, and expressed optimism that their concerns would be incorporated into the budget.
Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner of Jammu presented a detailed sector-wise proposal based on input from the MLAs. The proposals covered a broad range of development sectors, including rural and urban development, public works, irrigation, healthcare, education, and social welfare, with special attention given to flood protection measures, groundwater conservation, and strengthening the Jal Shakti department to address water scarcity.